Lidded Tankard
dated 1587 | Christoph Gandtner
The colourful ceramic objects of the South Tyrolean master potter Christoph Gandtner, whose works also interested Emperor Rudolph II, appear to be small functionless sculptures but could be used as drinking vessels. For that purpose, either the head was removed or the figure turned over. The associated difficulty in drinking, like the interpretation of the subjects represented, provided entertainment at court festivities.
The colourful ceramic objects of the South Tyrolean master potter Christoph Gandtner, whose works also interested Emperor Rudolph II, appear to be small functionless sculptures but could be used as drinking vessels. For that purpose, either the head was removed or the figure turned over. The associated difficulty in drinking, like the interpretation of the subjects represented, provided entertainment at court festivities.
Artist:
Christoph Gandtner (gest. 1605 Meran) DNB
Time:
dated 1587
Object Name
Vessel; Tankard
Culture
Innsbruck
Material/technology:
Tin-glazed earthenware
Dimensions:
H. 20,4 cm
Signed
C.G. 1587
Inscribed
"DIE FIGVR BEDEIT DIE ART DER DRHEIT" (oben); "DRVHE ET MIST GNAN DAM M DV A L V SCHA" (unten)
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Kunstkammer, 3112